st mary’s owes its splendour to the patronage of the earls of warwick for over 300 years, especially thomas beauchamp, the 11th earl (died 1369), his son, also thomas (died 1401), and richard, the 13th earl (died 1439). warwick was one of the most powerful earldoms in the country, and this is reflected in the rebuilding of the castle from about 1350 to 1400, and st mary’s at the same time. both buildings had to reflect the earls’ status.
the medieval gem that is the beauchamp chapel was built between 1441 and about 1455 to house the tomb of richard, the 13th earl. the nave and tower were destroyed in the great fire of warwick in 1694, but thankfully the chancel, chapter house and, most importantly, the beauchamp chapel were saved.
my sincerest thanks go out to the duty staff at st. mary’s who took an interest in my work and were most helpful.
You must be logged in to post a comment.